At 104, I’ve Moved Into An Assisted Living Center

After walking hundreds of miles over so many decades, I managed to keep my aging process at bay. Sadly, it appears time has finally caught up with me. Fortunately I’m not ill, just “old” as my doctor tells me. And a “fall risk,” which doesn’t sound that bad to me but I’m told it is.

I never thought when I moved in with Bob and Lisa five years ago, after suffering my moderate stroke in 2011, that I’d also survive the 2012 loss of my wife of 70 years, Sylvia, to Alzheimer’s disease. Somehow I’ve made it to 2016, but I’m no longer strong or steady. My doctor advised me and Lisa last month to think about living in a safer environment. Neither Lisa or I wanted to hear that, but we knew the doctor was right. My steady walk had turned unpredictable, with me reaching out to right myself with a wall or the elbow of someone close by. Now I know that kind of “fall risk” can break or fracture a bone, or cause you to hit your head and suffer a concussion.

After touring SNFs (skilled nursing facilities,) board and care homes, and assisted living facilities, Lisa, Bob, and I weighed to pros and cons of each option. Lisa brought me to see the facilities she thought I might like and where I’d be cared for well. I must admit, the assisted facility where I reside now, Brookdale in Camarillo, California, surprised me. It is clean, well-staffed with helpful and friendly people, and an available room open with its own private bathroom (now mine.)

Earlier this month I moved into my new “home.” Who ever heard of a person aged 104 moving into a new home? The whole thing is something I’m still getting used to. And it’s not easy. I’m not too sure how this new move will play out (I’m not much of a bingo player) but I’m going to give it a try. Bob and Lisa’s dog, Rosa, isn’t here to coax me into getting a bone, which I miss. But I do have the option of staying in my room when I want privacy, or becoming involved in a facility event like “movie night” if I want to get out and socialize. Stay tuned for future installments of my adjustment to assisted living life. The jury is still out.

You’re are in my heart and mind. All the things we have seen, places you have went. All the life you have lived. The stories you can tell. I would love to hear them all. every detail. Please stay strong, God Bless You Henry. I’m thinking of you.

Thank you for sharing your and Henry’s stories. Henry’s life was immeasurably better because of you. Bless you and him and your husband Bob. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers during this time of grieving.